Is it possible to drink Senade during pregnancy? Instructions for use

While pregnant, women often experience constipation. To facilitate bowel movements, expectant mothers try to use homemade recipes and herbal-based preparations that are gentle on the body. However, even such means can lead to tragedy. For example, doctors categorically do not recommend using Senade during pregnancy.

Pharmacological properties

The tablet form of Senade contains active ingredients - sennosides. Considering their chemical structure, we can say that these are substances of the anthraglycoside class, which include elements of simple sugars such as galactose and glucose. By acting on neuroreceptors, they stimulate the smooth muscle structure of the colon intestinal canal. Thus, the amplitude of contractions is stimulated and their duration increases. The patient feels relief due to the gentle movement of fecal waste. In this case, the nature of defecation does not change, i.e. bowel movements occur without symptoms of diarrhea. The tablets have a selective effect exclusively on the colon, which eliminates the issue of absorption of the substance into the systemic circulation. Optimizing the process of excreting feces has a beneficial effect on the overall digestion of food, without causing addiction to the chemical. Therefore, the doctor can safely give recommendations for longer use of the drug without fear of developing side complications. After its discontinuation, the likelihood of constipation recurrence is minimal. Thus, there is no need to be afraid of their repetition.

How Senade works

The medicine contains only natural components of plant origin, namely Senna leaf extract. This is a medicinal plant that has unique properties, namely a laxative effect. The active substance, entering the digestive system, begins to influence smooth muscles, causing it to more intensively digest food, absorb useful components and remove waste products from the body. Ultimately, it is possible to restore a stable digestive process and cleanse the body of toxic substances.

The components of the drug accumulate in the large intestine, increasing the amount of fluid, which in turn dilutes and pushes waste out. The components of the product are not absorbed into the circulatory system and are completely eliminated from the body. At the same time, Senade should only be prescribed by a doctor during pregnancy, after a complete examination of the patient.

Is it possible to take Senade during pregnancy?

This is a very important question. The most important thing is to read the instructions for the drug, where all contraindications, side effects and unpleasant symptoms are clearly indicated. In addition, you should definitely consult with a gynecologist and gastroenterologist, who will select the optimal drug, depending on the health status of a particular woman.

The medicinal plant extract can also stimulate the muscles of the genitourinary system, namely the uterus. Therefore, it is not recommended to take the drug in the early stages, especially when there is a threat of miscarriage.

In addition, discomfort symptoms may occur in the form of pain in various parts of the abdomen. The drug has an aggressive effect on the intestinal system, forcing it to more intensively cope with its direct responsibilities. That is why the laxative effect occurs very quickly. In this case, there is a high risk of stimulation of the uterine muscles. Therefore, you need to be very careful when choosing laxatives during pregnancy.

Senade tablets during pregnancy are effective 8 hours after use. That is why it is better to take the drug before bed in order to get a positive result in the morning. For adults, one tablet per day is enough to restore the natural process of bowel movements. At the same time, you need to drink a lot to dilute the waste in the large intestine.

For severe constipation, it is recommended to take the drug for three days. This is exactly how much is needed to completely cleanse the body of waste and toxins, as well as restore a smooth digestive process.

Experts do not recommend taking the drug for more than a week. The body can get used to the active substance and can no longer do without it. In addition, exceeding the recommended treatment period may cause negative symptoms such as diarrhea or dehydration. That is why, especially during pregnancy, you should adhere to all recommended doses.

It is also not recommended to use the Senna plant directly to treat constipation. The plant can be bought at the pharmacy, but it contains impurities and has more contraindications than the adapted drug Senade.

Half of women experience constipation during pregnancy, which is associated with physiological changes in the digestive system and changes in its regulation. Correction of nutrition and physical activity do not always cope with the problem. It is important for the expectant mother to know about the rational choice of laxatives, for example, is it possible to take Senade during pregnancy.

Indications and contraindications for use

The manufacturer recommends drinking Senade as a laxative for the following conditions and diseases:

Difficulty in bowel movement due to hemorrhoids (including in pregnant women), anal fissure, inflammation of the rectal mucosa. These situations require regular bowel movements to avoid worsening the pathological process.
Functional stool retention associated with the inability to go to the toilet or ignoring the urge to defecate.
Insufficient motor activity of the intestines, hypotension caused by a sedentary nature of life, obesity, forced lying position, hormonal changes (excess progesterone in the body of expectant mothers).

From the indications it follows that you can take Senade during pregnancy, although the manufacturer does not give direct recommendations. Contraindications also do not indicate the impossibility of use during this period. However, attention is drawn to the need for caution.

You should strictly not use the drug:

if you suspect intestinal obstruction;
for spastic constipation, which is accompanied by cramping attacks of pain;
in cases of individual intolerance to the drug;
with severe abdominal pain of unknown origin;
after serious abdominal operations;
for acute inflammatory diseases;
if there is a threat of development or in the presence of intestinal or uterine bleeding.

Pregnancy is a physiological (natural) state of the female body, however, the pathological situations listed above can also occur at this time.

Senade during pregnancy

If the process of natural bowel movement is completely absent for two days, then constipation or another disease of the digestive system can already be suspected. There are several types of constipation. That is why it is important to establish the underlying cause of digestive disorders in order to choose the optimal treatment method.

So, there are the following types of constipation:

Problems with stool can occur under the influence of colitis, which is an inflammatory disease of the gastric mucosa. The main causes of the disease are long-term drug treatment, unhealthy foods and intestinal infections. Quite often, dietary nutrition can solve the problem and stop the inflammatory process in the stomach.
Constipation can also be spastic. In this case, there is a lack of bowel movements, severe pain in the abdomen and head, and a deterioration in general well-being. Mostly stress, nervous tension and fatigue are the main causes of digestive disorders. This also includes a sedentary lifestyle and non-compliance with the principles of rational nutrition. In this case, we can recommend dietary nutrition, drugs based on safe medicinal herbs and antispasmodics.
If the smooth muscles of the intestines lose their tone and cannot cope with the high-quality digestion of food, atonic constipation occurs. A special period for a woman is very often accompanied by just this type of constipation. In this case, pregnant women may be prescribed Senade, the main components of which stimulate the functioning of the muscles of the digestive system. Ultimately, the body is cleansed of toxins and a stable digestive process is restored.

Side effect

The most common negative reactions are:

Increased gas formation.
Discomfort in the abdominal area.
Excessive fluid loss, causing attacks of nausea and dizziness.

An overdose is dangerous, which leads to a decrease in blood pressure, seizures, and kidney failure. Naturally, such conditions are considered threatening for the child’s development.

The most common side effects are the use of Senade with medications that affect the functionality of the liver and kidneys. At the same time, a loss of potassium ions occurs, which affects the functioning of the heart muscle.

Side effects

Despite the plant origin of the active component of Senada, the formation of accidental phenomena during its use cannot be ruled out. They arise as a result of the administration of large doses and prolonged treatment, when some patients neglect the recommendations of doctors. The development of complications is explained by the effect of sennosides on the receptors of the mucous membrane of internal organs. Typically, negative processes occur in a weakened form and disappear spontaneously, so a special course of therapy is not required.

Despite the natural origin of the active chemical component Senade, it is capable of interacting with some dosage forms. Therefore, it is recommended to consult with medical professionals before using it.

The main symptom of taking a large dose is persistent diarrhea. To eliminate it, it is recommended to drink large quantities of mineral water or take Ringer's solution.

Experts do not recommend taking Senade to pregnant women if there is a risk of miscarriage. The main component of the drug stimulates the smooth muscles of the intestines and can affect the uterus, which can lead to premature birth. This is the first and serious side effect of the drug.

In addition, the active substance actively stimulates the functioning of the muscles of the digestive system, which can lead to pain in different parts of the abdomen.

Deterioration of general health in the form of dizziness, nausea and vomiting.

In some cases, the patient may experience allergic reactions to the main components of the drug. For example, it could be a skin rash.

Instructions for use of Senade warn that long-term use in high doses can enhance the effect of cardiac glycosides and affect the effect of antiarrhythmic drugs, increasing the risk of developing hypokalemia. The latter can occur if the medication is combined with thiazide diuretics, glucocorticoids, and drugs based on licorice root.

The annotation for the medicine states possible side effects when taking it. These include the following factors:

colicky abdominal pain, flatulence;
disturbance of water-electrolyte metabolism;
albuminuria, hematuria, melanin deposition in the intestinal mucosa;
nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, discoloration of urine;
skin rash, convulsions, vascular collapse;
increased fatigue, confusion.

An unfavorable symptom of an overdose is diarrhea, which is dangerous because it leads to dehydration. To eliminate its signs, you need to take conservative measures - increase your water intake to compensate for fluid loss and lack of electrolytes. Sometimes doctors resort to emergency measures when electrolytes are lost - intravenous infusions of plasma substitutes are administered.

During pregnancy, this drug is not always well tolerated. We can say that senade is a heavy drug that is not gentle. Side effects may include nausea, intestinal pain, vomiting and diarrhea. If side effects develop, you will need to immediately stop using the drug. Side effects may occur even though the drug is herbal in origin.

During pregnancy, you can find a replacement for this drug, for example, taking lactulose or norgalax will not be harmful to health. Many people use glycerin suppositories. To prevent constipation, you need to consider the following points. Drink plenty of water, eat enough fiber and be sure to lead a sports lifestyle.

So, it is not recommended to take senade, but if you really need it, then with great caution. After all, it is impossible to achieve simply soft stools when taking this drug, since the longer the stool is in the intestinal lumen, the denser it becomes. This is due to the fact that the water contained in the stool is absorbed into the intestinal walls over time.

The feces become denser, and the drug, without affecting the water content in it, simply speeds up the process of movement. When stool comes out of the anus, it can sometimes be difficult, which can result in pain and cramping. The pain is sometimes very severe, which can even be similar to a disease of the abdominal organs.

There have been no studies of the effects of senade on pregnant women, so it is better not to risk your health and that of your baby. If you think logically, you can understand why it is forbidden to drink senade during pregnancy. After taking the pill, a spasm may occur. Premature birth may occur with repeated use of the drug. Taking senade for a short period of time can lead to miscarriage. At this time, the uterus will become toned, which will lead to abortion.

Description of the drug and mechanism of action

"Senade" is available in the form of tablets, which are brown in color, beveled edges, round and flat in shape. There is a visible break line on one side of the medicine, and the word CIPLA is embossed on the other side, identifying the manufacturer. Tablets are sold in blisters of 20 pieces, and one pack contains 2, 3 or 25 blisters. No prescription is required to purchase Senade , and the average price for 500 tablets is 530–550 rubles.

The effect of the drug is due to the extract from hay leaves, which is contained in 1 tablet in an amount of slightly more than 93 mg. It contains sennosides A and B in the form of calcium salts. If you recalculate the dosage of Senade only for sennoside B, then one tablet is a source of 13.5 mg of this compound. The auxiliary components of the medication include starch, sodium carmellose, milk sugar and some other substances, thanks to which the tablet is dense and keeps its shape. The shelf life of Senade is 3 years.

Until the date marked on the package has passed, it is recommended to store the medicine at a temperature no higher than +30 degrees, away from moisture and small children.

The herbal base of the tablets has laxative properties, which begin to appear approximately 8-10 hours after taking Senade. Sennosides pass through the stomach and small intestine unchanged, beginning to be broken down only in the large intestine under the influence of normal microflora. The medication acts on receptors that are located in the colon, which leads to activation of peristalsis and stimulates bowel movements.

Method and features of use

The use of the chemical drug Senade should be done in the evening before bed, one piece per day. When self-medicating, which is not encouraged by doctors, administering the material for more than three days in a row is dangerous to health. In case of complicated constipation, you should immediately contact a specialized medical specialist.

For minor patients over 12 years of age, the dosage of the material does not differ from the norm prescribed for adults. The treatment regimen is as follows. In the first three days, take 1 capsule. If there are no positive changes, increase the dose to 1.5 pieces for another 3 days. In the same sequence, the norm is increased to 3 tablets per day.

Analogs

If due to contraindications it is impossible to use Senade, then you can always choose drugs with a similar effect.

Doctors recommend choosing products with lactulose, which is not absorbed in the body and actively cleanses the intestinal system of waste products. For example, you can highlight Duphalac, which is safe for both adults and children.

Glycerin suppositories are also allowed during pregnancy due to the absence of contraindications. Glycerin has a gentle effect on the muscles of the colon, causing them to push waste products out of the body.

As a substitute for Senada, it is permitted to use its analogues or synonyms. These include Bekunis, Regulax, Tisasen, Agiolaks and others.

There are no direct analogues of the drug in composition, but pharmacists distinguish medications with similar pharmacological effects:

Duphalac syrup;
petroleum jelly, lactulose;
magnesium sulfate powders, Forlax;
tablets Senna, Gerbion Laxana, Glaxenna;
glycerin solutions, Enema;
Holagol drops;
Regulax, Sennadexin, Sennadex;
Antrasennin, Bekunis;
X-Prepp, Pursennydd;
Senalex, Sennagud, Sennalax, Sennaplant, Sennapur, Sennozid-Teva;
Tisasen, Ex-Lax.

Senade during pregnancy: is a laxative safe for expectant mothers?

According to the pharmacological classification, the drug belongs to the group of laxatives. Senade - instructions for use state that the active ingredients of the drug are sennosides of groups A and B. The drug is used to treat constipation of hypo- and atonic origin, hemorrhoids, fissures and fistulas of the anus, rectum, proctitis. The medicine is available only in tablet form.

The restructuring of the body during pregnancy affects many aspects of a woman’s life. Some people take the problems that arise for granted. But silently enduring pain and discomfort can be dangerous for both mother and baby.

For example, frequent constipation increases the amount of toxins in the blood, provokes the appearance of cracks in the rectum and hemorrhoids, and in recent months, premature birth is possible as a result of strong straining during bowel movements. These problems can be prevented by changing your lifestyle to a more active one, choosing the right diet and, in extreme cases, using laxatives.

Senade tablets should be used during pregnancy after consultation with a gynecologist and with caution, since they are contraindicated in certain diseases, and an overdose of the drug poses a threat to the life of the child.

How does Senade work?

The medicine is of plant origin - it is based on substances obtained from the leaves of Senna Alexandrina. This shrub has been used since ancient times as a remedy for constipation. You need to drink infusions or extracts obtained from its green parts - shoots and leaves.

The drug Senade contains purified plant components that were isolated from various types of shrubs. The medicine contains only active ingredients purified from foreign impurities. Infusions made at home may contain foreign essential oils. They cause a number of side effects related to intestinal upset.

Nowadays, pharmacologists are trying to abandon the uncontrolled use of Senade, since its adverse effect on the liver and digestive tract has been proven. Therefore, women during pregnancy should use it only with caution, following the instructions for use.

Mechanism of action

Senade contains a complex of plant glycosides that have the ability to bind to colon receptors. It has not only a local effect - a small amount of the drug passes through the intestinal wall, entering the liver system. The therapeutic effect is ensured as the medicine is distributed throughout the colon:

The local effect begins within a few hours after administration. Glycosides contained in Senada bind to colon receptors and cause their activation. Irritation of the intestinal wall increases its tone, promoting rapid excretion of feces.
The general effect begins 12 hours after the first dose, when the drug spreads through the digestive tract. Water absorption decreases, which increases the volume and softness of stool. The tone of the colon returns to normal, which allows for timely removal of feces.

The positive effect of Senade is not observed immediately, but after a few days. The tone and activity of the digestive tract are restored, after which further use of the medicine can be stopped. During pregnancy, long-term use of any medications is not recommended.

Senade is used only for conditions that are accompanied by a decrease in the tone of the large intestine. In late pregnancy, symptoms of constipation occur in almost all expectant mothers. But it is worth remembering that this medicine can only be used for preventive purposes.

If complications develop (hemorrhoids, anal fissure), it is used as a final remedy after the main course of treatment.

How to drink Senade

According to the instructions for use, Senade tablets are taken orally. They are drunk at night once a day, washed down with water or another drink. Adults are advised to take one dose per dose. If there is no effect from the drug, the doctor may increase the dose to 2-3 tablets. During the dose selection process, the prescribed amount is taken over several days, gradually increasing by ½ piece. If the maximum dose does not help achieve bowel movement, visit a doctor.

During pregnancy, many women experience bowel dysfunction. In the early stages, these symptoms are usually associated with toxicosis - its mechanisms cause malnutrition in expectant mothers.

In this case, doctors do without medications, since eliminating incompatible foods from the diet allows you to stop bloating and frequent loose stools. If diarrhea is associated with intestinal disease, then medications are used.

Contraindications

Even if the use of laxatives is necessary during pregnancy, Senade is prescribed extremely rarely. But even in this case, the instructions should be carefully studied in order to prevent a negative result of therapy.

Do not use if you have the following health problems:

Gastrointestinal diseases. In chronic cases, exacerbation is likely.
Individual intolerance to components. Manifests itself in the form of an allergic reaction similar to rubella with the development of an itchy skin rash and tissue swelling.
Inflammation of the abdominal cavity. The risk of formation of adhesions increases.
Intestinal hernia.
Uterine bleeding.

It is better not to use Senade simultaneously with other medications, since there is no information about their combined effect during pregnancy.

special instructions

According to the instructions for use, it is not recommended to take the medication to enhance intestinal motility for more than two weeks. It is considered normal if, while taking the drug, the urine turns yellow-brown or red-lilac. Dose adjustments occur under the supervision of a physician; self-prescription is not recommended due to the high risk of side effects. Some people use the drug for weight loss, but this does not lead to the desired effect.

Relationship between pregnancy and constipation

Oddly enough, one of the causes of constipation is pregnancy itself. In a woman’s body, the production of progesterone increases, as a result of which the activity of the pelvic muscles, including peristalsis, decreases. Nature deliberately reduces smooth muscle tone to allow the egg to implant well in the uterus. But this is only one side of the issue.

Part of the reason for defecation disorders is the lifestyle of the expectant mother. The early stages are characterized by:

changes in diet (tastes have changed, the body has not had time to rebuild);
decreased motor activity (no strength or desire);
taking iron-containing vitamins;
taking calcium supplements.

In the later stages, an enlarged uterus, changes in the position of the fetus, stress, and anxiety before childbirth are added to this list. If constipation is caused by decreased muscle tone (atonic) and the pregnant woman has no contraindications, then using Senade under the supervision of a doctor will help avoid many problems.

Important! Nursing mothers should be aware that the active components of Senade pass into breast milk. The infant may experience rebound effects from this medication.

Why is constipation dangerous for a pregnant woman?

In addition to pain and discomfort, constipation poses a risk of developing certain diseases. As a result of the accumulation of feces in the body of a pregnant woman, the following occurs:

microbes begin to actively multiply in the rectum, negatively affecting the microflora;
toxins enter the blood;
hard feces injure the mucous membrane, leading to the appearance of cracks and hemorrhoids;
a crowded intestine reduces the tone of the uterus, and there is a risk of miscarriage;
strong attempts in the later stages provoke premature birth.

It is recommended to find out whether you can drink Smecta during pregnancy.
Note: how to eliminate diarrhea during pregnancy.

In addition, the feeling of not completely emptying the intestines adds negativity and causes completely unnecessary stress. In such a situation, on the recommendation and under the supervision of a doctor (!), you can take Senade with caution if the pregnant woman has atonic constipation and there are no problems with the intestines. But it is quite difficult to understand what is happening without the help of a qualified specialist. Therefore, before taking a laxative, you should still talk to your doctor so as not to harm yourself and your unborn child.

Senada for children

Senade's instructions allow the use of the medication by children over six years of age (3-6 years in exceptional cases). The dosage for them will be half a tablet per day, if necessary it can be increased to 1-2 pieces. Children over 12 years of age are prescribed an adult dose - one tablet once a day; if there is no effect, it is allowed to increase it to 2-3 tablets. Indications for use of the medicine in childhood are constipation.

In case of long-term absence of bowel movements, give the baby the whole tablet at once; in case of short-term absence, give the minimum dose. If the latter does not work, wait a day, repeat the dose, if after 24 hours there is no bowel movement, give the whole tablet. If after taking the maximum dosage the child does not go to the toilet within 24 hours, visit the doctor to adjust the medication.

Composition and properties of the medicine

Senade is a well-known Indian herbal preparation used to relieve constipation in school-age children and adults. It is available in tablets containing 13.5 mg of senna herb extract. Another name for this plant is Cassia aculifolia.

Widespread use in medical practice is based on anthraglycosides that are part of the herb. They irritate sensitive nerve receptors located in the wall of the large intestine and stimulate peristalsis. In addition, senna has mild choleretic properties, which has a positive effect on the digestion of fats.

The laxative effect of Senade appears 7-8 hours (sometimes up to half a day) after ingestion. If you drink 2-3 glasses of warm (or slightly salted) water, the effect will come faster.

When taking the medicine in the dose recommended by the manufacturer, there is no change in stool consistency. Due to the selective effect of anthraglycosides on the colon, bowel movements are not accompanied by diarrhea.

Senade tablets do not cause drug dependence if taken in accordance with the instructions. Discontinuation of the medication after normalization of bowel movements occurs calmly and does not lead to resumption of constipation.

It usually takes 1 to 3 days to restore normal bowel function. If taking Senade during this time does not have the expected effect, you should consult your doctor, find out the cause of persistent constipation and take measures to eliminate it.